The Nigerian community in South Africa has expressed concern over what it described as recurring hostility toward foreign nationals, particularly other Africans, warning that the trend reflects deeper structural challenges rather than the presence of migrants.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the National Secretary of the Igbo Union South Africa, Ezeanozie Eleberi, the group said the situation was “not a new crisis, but a dangerous pattern rooted in economic frustration, governance failures, and the misdirection of public anger.”
It stressed that foreign nationals should not be blamed for South Africa’s socio-economic difficulties.
“Let it be stated clearly: foreign nationals are not the cause of South Africa’s economic or social challenges,” the statement read.
According to the group, issues such as unemployment, inequality, crime, and poor service delivery are structural and internal, adding that migrants—many of whom operate in the informal sector—cannot be held responsible.
The statement also referenced Africa’s shared history, particularly the support South Africa received from other countries during the apartheid era, noting Nigeria’s political, financial, and diplomatic backing.
Quoting former President Nelson Mandela, it recalled his acknowledgement that “Nigeria made a very significant contribution to the struggle against apartheid,” describing Nigeria as a “frontline state” in South Africa’s liberation struggle.
“That legacy of solidarity should not be repaid with hostility,” the group said.
On crime, the statement argued that blaming foreign nationals is not supported by credible nationwide evidence. It described crime in South Africa as a complex issue linked to organised criminal networks, inequality, weak law enforcement in some areas, and corruption within institutions.
It further cited concerns raised in public reports about corruption involving some officials, law enforcement personnel, and business actors, stressing that these are systemic issues requiring accountability rather than scapegoating.
“These are internal systemic challenges that require accountability, not scapegoating,” the statement said.
On the economy, the group maintained that foreign nationals contribute positively through small businesses, job creation in informal sectors, and local economic activity, describing claims that migrants are “taking over” the economy as misleading.
The Nigerian community called on South African authorities to take decisive action against violence and intimidation, while urging community leaders to reject misinformation and promote unity.
“South Africa remains a great nation with immense potential. However, its challenges will not be solved by turning against fellow Africans”, the statement added.
Reports indicated that xenophobic tensions have recently escalated in parts of South Africa, with incidents of harassment and violence against migrants in cities including Pretoria.
Some accounts also alleged attempts to disrupt access to schools for children of foreign nationals.
The unrest has reportedly led to fatalities, including two Nigerians, raising concern within the diaspora and renewed calls for government intervention.
While Nigeria’s Acting Ambassador to South Africa said the situation is being monitored, President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged foreign nationals to respect local laws while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to human rights and public safety.
